Police, health, justice, and research behind defence

A state that protects itself abroad also needs security and resilience at home. Police protect bases, roads, and the revenue system, while health care keeps teachers, factory workers, and other essential personnel able to work. Weapons and industrial sites create hazards, so ambulance and fire services form part of the same support system. Police also require courts, prisons, and a justice system. Scientific research adds another layer of public organization. A government built around defence soon acquires responsibilities far beyond the armed forces.